[Adam Helmer]

HuntinDoc,

If you are startled, you may NEED to fire RIGHT THEN! As I said, for those not familiar with their guns and high stress situations, then by all means they should put their fingers on the frame.

My question is the source of that scenario? Who dreamed it up that fingers along the frame is safer? If LEOs fire their guns clearing jams, reholstering and such like, then keep them on the range until they are familiar with their guns. Remember, most LEOs never shot a gun until they were recruited. Their learning curve is verticle and then they do not have the "groove" when it comes time to do the shot.

That DEA agent forgot to WATCH THE MUZZLE and then worry about the trigger finger. What was his experience despite his opening remark, "I am the most professional person here qualified to handle a gun?" Well, the DEA should fire him and get someone familiar with firearms.

If anyone knows the source of the "finger on the frame" scenario, please let me know who thought it up. Was TV and the movies the source or just a follow-on to some department SOP? I see several TV-inspired acts at the local gun club. Recently I saw a new member fire a shot from his single action Ruger .44 Magnum and then blow down the muzzle of the still-loaded gun! Another newbie loaded his DA revolver and then SNAPPED the loaded cylinder back into the frame with a flick of his wrist just like Kojak does, how jaunty?

Adam